Uphuthu
Crumbly Maize Meal
Uphuthu is a traditional South African dish, often referred to as Zulu-style pap. It's characterized by its distinct crumbly texture, achieved by cooking maize meal until it separates into small, dry granules. It is traditionally served with amasi (fermented milk) for a tangy contrast.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups (approximately 300g) Maize meal (super coarse or coarse grind)(Use a coarse grind for the best crumbly texture. Super coarse is ideal if available.)
- 3 cups (710ml) Water(Adjust slightly if needed to achieve desired consistency.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(Or to taste.)
- for serving Amasi (fermented milk)(This is a traditional accompaniment. Plain yogurt or buttermilk can be used as substitutes if amasi is unavailable.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the water and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. This should take about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Once the water is boiling vigorously, gradually add the maize meal while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is well combined and starts to thicken.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and let the maize meal steam. Cook for 25 minutes without stirring. The goal is for the maize meal to absorb the water and begin to separate.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 4
After 25 minutes, remove the lid. Using a fork, gently break up the cooked maize meal and stir it to create a crumbly, fluffy texture. If it seems too wet, continue to cook uncovered on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired crumbly consistency. The uphuthu should be dry and granular, not sticky or porridge-like.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 5
Serve the uphuthu hot, spooned into individual bowls. Drizzle generously with amasi (or your chosen substitute) just before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency of uphuthu is a matter of personal preference, but the hallmark is its crumbly, granular texture rather than a smooth, porridge-like pap.
- ✓Amasi adds a traditional fermented tang. If unavailable, plain yogurt or buttermilk can offer a similar cooling and slightly acidic counterpoint.
- ✓Uphuthu is a staple breakfast dish in many South African households, providing sustained energy for the day.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a slightly sweeter taste, a tablespoon of sugar can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- A knob of butter can be stirred into the hot uphuthu for added richness.
- Some enjoy adding a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick.